11719, Brookhaven, New York Arthritis Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Arthritis Score in 11719, Brookhaven, New York is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Arthritis Care in the Heart of Long Island: A Hospital Review Near ZIP Code 11719

Finding top-tier arthritis care near your home is crucial for managing this often-debilitating condition. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 11719 (Bayport, Blue Point, and Patchogue) in Suffolk County, Long Island, providing a detailed look at their arthritis-related services, including key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities.

**Stony Brook University Hospital: A Regional Powerhouse**

Stony Brook University Hospital (SBUH), located in Stony Brook, is a major player in the region. While not directly within the 11719 ZIP code, its reputation and accessibility make it a primary consideration for many residents. SBUH holds a respectable **3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**, a measure of overall hospital quality based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

SBUH boasts a comprehensive rheumatology division, offering a wide range of services for arthritis patients. They treat various forms of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and gout. The hospital's rheumatology team includes board-certified physicians, nurses, and support staff dedicated to providing personalized care.

While specific ER wait times can fluctuate, SBUH generally experiences moderate wait times. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours. The hospital's emergency department is equipped to handle acute arthritis flares and related emergencies.

SBUH has invested in telehealth services, allowing for virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. This is particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas. The availability of telehealth can improve access to care and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits. SBUH's telehealth platform has seen a steady increase in utilization, especially since the pandemic.

**Long Island Community Hospital (Patchogue): Local Convenience**

Long Island Community Hospital (LICH) in Patchogue is a closer option for residents of 11719. LICH is a community hospital offering essential services. They have a rheumatology department that provides care for a variety of arthritic conditions.

LICH's CMS star rating is currently unavailable. However, it is a well-regarded community hospital. The hospital's rheumatology services are focused on providing accessible care within the local community.

ER wait times at LICH are generally shorter compared to larger hospitals like SBUH. This can be a significant advantage for patients seeking prompt medical attention.

LICH has been expanding its telehealth offerings, including virtual consultations for rheumatology patients. The hospital is working to integrate telehealth into its standard of care.

**Mather Hospital (Port Jefferson): A Focus on Patient Experience**

Mather Hospital in Port Jefferson, although slightly further afield, is a significant healthcare provider in the region. Mather Hospital has a good reputation for patient experience.

Mather Hospital's CMS star rating is currently unavailable. The hospital is known for its patient-centered approach to care.

Mather's rheumatology services are geared towards providing comprehensive care for various arthritic conditions. The hospital's team of specialists focuses on diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management of arthritis.

ER wait times at Mather Hospital are generally moderate. The hospital's emergency department is equipped to handle a range of medical conditions, including arthritis-related emergencies.

Mather Hospital has been actively developing its telehealth capabilities. This includes virtual consultations and remote monitoring options for rheumatology patients.

**Other Considerations: Outpatient Clinics and Specialists**

Beyond hospitals, several outpatient clinics and individual specialists in the area offer arthritis care. These clinics often provide more specialized services or offer quicker appointment times.

**Advanced Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute (various locations):** This institute has multiple locations, including one in Patchogue. They offer comprehensive orthopedic care, including treatment for arthritis. They often work in conjunction with rheumatologists to provide coordinated care.

**The Rheumatology Center of Long Island (various locations):** This center has multiple locations across Long Island. They offer specialized rheumatology services, including diagnosis, treatment, and management of various arthritic conditions.

**Important Metrics: Understanding the Data**

* **CMS Star Ratings:** These ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality. Higher star ratings (up to 5 stars) indicate better performance across various quality measures.
* **ER Wait Times:** These times reflect the average time a patient waits to see a healthcare provider in the emergency room. Shorter wait times are generally preferred, especially in urgent situations.
* **Telehealth Availability:** The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility issues or those living in remote areas.
* **Specialty Centers:** Hospitals with dedicated specialty centers often have more expertise and resources for treating specific conditions like arthritis.

**Navigating Your Choices: Key Takeaways**

Choosing the right hospital for arthritis care involves considering several factors, including proximity, reputation, services offered, and patient experience.

* **Stony Brook University Hospital** offers a comprehensive rheumatology program and is a regional leader, though it may involve longer wait times.
* **Long Island Community Hospital** provides convenient access to care within the local community.
* **Mather Hospital** is known for its patient-centered approach and is a good option for those prioritizing patient experience.
* **Outpatient clinics and specialists** can offer more specialized services and potentially quicker appointment times.

**Recommendations:**

1. **Consult with your primary care physician:** They can provide referrals to rheumatologists and help you navigate the healthcare system.
2. **Research individual rheumatologists:** Look for board-certified physicians with experience in treating your specific type of arthritis.
3. **Inquire about telehealth options:** If you have mobility issues or prefer virtual consultations, ask about telehealth availability.
4. **Consider your insurance coverage:** Ensure that the hospital and rheumatologists you choose are in your insurance network.
5. **Read patient reviews:** Online reviews can provide valuable insights into the experiences of other patients.

By carefully considering these factors and utilizing the information provided in this review, residents of ZIP code 11719 can make informed decisions about their arthritis care, leading to better management of their condition and improved quality of life.